PATTERN SHEET 23

Suit System:

S

Recommended Name:

the Cádiz pattern.

This pattern was originally classified as S-1.14.
Together with other designs derived from the National (S-1.1)
at the time when it was produced mainly in Andalucia, it has been referred to as
of "Andalucianquot; or "Southern" style. As a pattern in its own
right, "Cádiz" (its precise place of origin) is recommended as the
appropriate name.

History

When the Real Fabrica's export monopoly, based at Macharaviaya (province of
Malaga), came to an end in 1811, independent cardmakers saw an opportunity to
exploit remaining markets abroad. Those in Cádiz became particularly active,
and their version of the National pattern took on characteristics which became
distinctive. These characteristics are found in early examples by L. Marchand (1812)
and Mariano Mafei (c.1818) and fully established in those of C. Somariva
(1842) and J. Acuaviva (1848). As it was the export market that provided these
maritime manufacturers with their main incentive, their designs became much more
familiar outside Spain than within. Mexico was the main target and there in
particular the Cádiz strain came to be an accepted Standard. When, in the
early 20th century, Spanish card manufacture shifted from Andalucia, the design
continued to be made and exported by Barcelona firms, as it now is by Fournier of
Vitoria. Moreover, ever since the pattern became familiar in Mexico it has
regularly been made there too. It is also used in Central America and the
Philippines. Not now used in Spain.

Composition

Distinctive features

Archaic, straight-sided cups as in the National pattern; court cards of the
batons suit wield clubs often shaped as in that design too. Kings and cavaliers
usually wear moustaches; kings' feet visible below robes. All cavaliers and jacks
wear knee-breeches, several quilted; waist-length tunics, most with balloon-like
upper sleeves, also quilted. "AHIVA" (or similar) commonly appears on
the cavalier of cups. Detailed patterning on the coins, which often have red
centres. Ace of coins: central coin with ribboned crown above, olive and palm
branches below.